The members of the girl group Apink are often admired for their slender physiques, but members Oh Hayoung and Park Chorong recently revealed that their appearance was once maintained through extreme and unsustainable dieting. Appearing on the YouTube channel Donghae & Eunhyuk, the two idols discussed the drastic measures they took during their debut days—and why they can no longer maintain such habits today.
"If we starve like we used to, we don't lose weight, and now we physically can't even do it. It's too hard," they shared, reflecting on their early years. Park Chorong recalled being scolded for her weight, leading her to eat raw vegetables without dressing and attempt "lemon detox" cleanses. Oh Hayoung, who was only in middle school at the time, confessed they had "no concept of protein at all," often hiding snacks inside dolls just to cope with the hunger.
The Salad Trap: Why Protein and Fats are Essential
Salads are a staple for weight management because they are low in calories and high in fiber. While Park Chorong’s method of skipping dressing entirely reduces fat and sodium intake, nutritional experts warn that a complete lack of fat can be counterproductive.
A small amount of healthy fat, such as olive oil or nuts, is necessary for the body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). Furthermore, a salad without a protein source—like chicken breast, tofu, or eggs—can lead to muscle loss. This decrease in muscle mass lowers the basal metabolic rate, making long-term weight maintenance significantly more difficult and increasing the likelihood of a "yo-yo" effect.
The Reality of "Detox": Lemon Juice and Its Side Effects
The lemon juice detox mentioned by the members is a popular but scientifically questionable trend. While lemons are rich in Vitamin C, the body’s detoxification is primarily handled by the liver and kidneys; no specific food or drink can "detox" the system more effectively than these organs.
Consuming highly acidic lemon juice, especially on an empty stomach, can cause severe irritation to the stomach lining. Additionally, the acidity can erode tooth enamel over time. Experts recommend diluting lemon juice significantly with water and rinsing the mouth afterward to prevent dental damage.
The Hidden Dangers of Adolescent Dieting
Oh Hayoung’s experience of dieting as a middle schooler is particularly concerning to medical professionals. Extreme caloric restriction during growth periods can lead to decreased immunity, chronic fatigue, and impaired concentration. For young women, these "extreme diets" significantly increase the risk of menstrual irregularities and reduced bone density later in life.
For those who need to manage their weight, especially during adolescence, the focus should shift from starvation to the elimination of processed foods and sugary drinks. Rather than indiscriminately cutting calories, experts suggest maintaining a balanced intake of quality carbohydrates, proteins, and fats while increasing physical activity to burn energy naturally.
